'I never considered retiring in 2028' - Pogacar shuts down early retirement speculation

Pogačar confirmed his 2026 racing plans will include a focus on the two prestigious one-day races he's yet to win, San Remo and Roubaix. "Yes, it's no secret that I'll try to be in top form for those two occasions," said Pogacar in an interview with La Gazzetta Dello Sport. "Those are two of my goals, and those of the team."

When asked whether he'd prefer to win a record number of Tours or complete his Monument collection, Pogačar stated, "I always choose as much variety as possible, even if there were seven Tours. Yes, the Tour is the biggest race, but in the other events, too, you have to beat the best. Always. And so, in my eyes, they're on the same level."

If Pogačar were to add Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix to his collection, he would become only the fourth rider in history to win all five Monuments, alongside the Belgian trio of Rik Van Looy, Roger De Vlaeminck and Eddy Merckx. He could join an even more exclusive club, alongside Merckx, in winning all five in the rainbow jersey.

The World Champion also addressed rumours about retirement rumours, rejecting the idea that he plans to stop after the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

"I never considered retiring in 2028. I signed the contract until 2030, but I can go beyond that,” explained Pogačar.

These rumours followed Pogačar’s comments after sealing a fourth Tour de France victory back in July. "I don’t think I’ll stop right away, but I also don’t see myself going on for too long either. The Los Angeles Olympics are one of my goals, which are three years from now. After that, I might start thinking about retirement - we’ll see."

However, it appears that the World Champion has put any doubts to bed and illustrated that his loyalty to UAE Team Emirates remains steadfast. "The team improves every year, and I feel more and more like part of a family. I don't see myself anywhere else, and if I want to race beyond 2030, it's very likely it will still be with UAE."

Pogačar's mindset also helps him remain grounded and passionate for the sport, something key to longevity. "I think I'm balanced. I don't like over-partying or wasting money. I don't think people have a clear understanding of the sacrifices you have to make to get to and stay at the top, and that's true for any sport. You're dedicated to it every day, even when you sleep. I repeat, you need balance.”

The World Champion also shared an anecdote about trying to maintain a 'normal' life off the bike despite his superstar status, "My former coach pointed out to me how soccer players often had a private chef, someone to go grocery shopping, someone to take care of the house... Well, that's not for me, for Urška [Žigart] and me."

"I like going to the supermarket and buying what I need myself. Or cleaning my room, the windows. Or even just going for a walk. I'm not a superhero, just a normal guy.”